A spinal fracture common in people with osteoporosis
A compression fracture occurs when a bone in the spine (vertebra) collapses under pressure from above and below.
It is most common in people with osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones) and can happen from a simple fall or even sitting down hard.
In older adults, it is sometimes called a "silent fracture" because it can occur without any obvious injury.
Aging and hormonal changes cause bones to become thin and fragile
A fall, sitting down hard, or even a sneeze can apply enough force
The weakened bone cannot withstand the pressure and crushes inward
In most cases, the bone heals with bracing and good pain control. In older adults, staying in bed for a long time can lead to muscle weakness, so we gradually get you upright as the pain allows. However, once a fracture occurs, the risk of another fracture increases significantly. Treating the underlying osteoporosis and preventing falls are very important.